Exceptional sparring session, indeed, and it's not a mere exaggeration
In an informative segment on Sat.1's morning show, Daniel Engelbarts, the Thrift Detective, suggested that booking flight and hotel together could be a cost-effective option for travellers.
Engelbarts provided an example calculation comparing the cost of booking flight and hotel separately to booking them as a package. The example used a round-trip flight from Stuttgart to Berlin, with a three-night hotel stay.
When booked separately, the round-trip flight from Stuttgart to Berlin was shown to cost 406 euros. However, when booked together as a package, the total cost was significantly lower at 287 euros for a three-night stay, and even cheaper at 270 euros for a one-night stay.
The savings are primarily due to discounted rates from travel companies, convenience, and marketing incentives. Airlines, hotels, and car rental companies often negotiate package deals with online travel agencies that are not available if booking each component separately. Packages also simplify booking, increase sales volume in a single transaction, and let companies move inventory faster.
Additionally, platforms like Expedia, Orbitz, and Priceline provide special bundled discounts and loyalty points when booking combined services online.
However, it's important to note that price advantages depend on the specific itinerary, timing, and providers involved. Sometimes, booking separately or mixing providers can lead to better deals. But as a general rule, bundling flights and hotels tends to be more cost-effective due to the structured discounts and promotions they attract.
Booking packages through reputable agencies or websites may also provide additional protections under travel legislation, though protection varies by region and exact booking method.
It's also worth mentioning that if you only need the flight and not the hotel, the return flight does not expire. Furthermore, it's recommended to briefly call the hotel to let them know you won't be coming.
The cost savings from booking flight and hotel together are due to the benefits of bundling, such as discounted rates, convenience, and marketing incentives. As reported on Sat.1's morning show, booking flight and hotel together is generally cheaper and more convenient, making it an attractive option for travellers.
[1] Travel Pulse. (2021, March 24). Why Booking a Flight and Hotel Together Can Save You Money. Retrieved from https://www.travelpulse.com/news/hotel/why-booking-a-flight-and-hotel-together-can-save-you-money.html [2] The Points Guy. (2021, April 9). Why You Should Book Your Flight and Hotel Together. Retrieved from https://thepointsguy.com/guide/why-you-should-book-your-flight-and-hotel-together/ [3] The Points Guy. (2021, April 9). What Happens If You Don't Use Your Hotel Room After Booking a Flight and Hotel Package. Retrieved from https://thepointsguy.com/guide/what-happens-if-you-dont-use-your-hotel-room-after-booking-a-flight-and-hotel-package/ [4] Expedia. (n.d.). Package Deals. Retrieved from https://www.expedia.co.uk/package-deals.d176554.travel-guide-Package-Deals [5] Orbitz. (n.d.). Orbitz Deals. Retrieved from https://www.orbitz.com/Orbitz-Deals/Orbitz-Deals-Landing.d176561.destinationPackage-Orbitz-Deals-Landing
[1] Investing in personal-finance and lifestyle can be significantly improved by taking advantage of structured discounts and promotions in travel, such as booking flights and hotels together.
[2] Engaging in smart personal-finance practices, like bundling travel services, could potentially lead to substantial savings, allowing for more enjoyable lifestyle experiences, as hinted by Daniel Engelbarts, the Thrift Detective, on a morning show.
